H. ‘Zitronenfalter’

Overview

Registered in 2003 by P. & J. Ruh, *Hosta* 'Zitronenfalter' is a small, viridescent cultivar distinguished by brilliant yellow leaf margins that fade to light green by midsummer, with a slightly shiny, ovate leaf blade that is lightly twisted, folded, wavy, and corrugated. The parentage is recorded as unknown.

In the Garden

This cultivar reaches a mature clump diameter of 26 inches (66.0 cm) and a height of 14.5 inches (36.8 cm), with an upright, fast-growing habit. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, where the yellow marginal variegation holds longest before viridescence; full sun may accelerate the color shift. Its small size makes it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or containers, and it pairs well with ferns, heucheras, or fine-textured groundcovers.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so regular monitoring or protective measures may be necessary in typical hosta-growing zones.